When it comes to gaming, having the right keyboard can significantly enhance your performance. Whether you’re a professional gamer or enjoy gaming in your free time, the keyboard you choose can make a big difference in your experience. Find out the best gaming keyboards for 2024 featuring top brands. Explore wireless connection options, highlighting their features, types, and technological advancements that make them stand out.
Top Picks for Best Gaming Keyboards 2024
Best Overall: Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless
The Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is the best overall gaming keyboard 2024. It combines a compact design with a full-size layout, offering a superb mechanical feel and robust performance.
Features: Mechanical feel, compact design, a full-size layout, pre-lubed ROG NX switches, adjustable media control wheel, sound dampening foam.
Specifications:
- Switches: ROG NX Snow (Hot-Swappable)
- Backlight: Per-key RGB
- Size: 14.84 x 5.16 x 1.57 inches (377 x 131 x 40 mm)
- Weight: 2.23 lbs (1012 g)
Pros: Excellent switch feel, hot-swappable switches, adjustable multimedia control wheel, sturdy PBT keycaps, impressive battery life.
Cons: The Messy Armoury Crate app has a cramped layout for some users.
Ideal For: Gamers looking for an all-rounder keyboard that excels in gaming and typing with a compact form factor.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Budget: G.Skill KM250 RGB
The G.Skill KM250 RGB is the top choice for budget-conscious gamers. Despite its low price, it offers features usually found in more expensive models.
Features: Kailh Red switches, 65% layout, per-key RGB, hot-swappable keys, discrete volume dial, PBT pudding caps.
Specifications:
- Switches: Kailh Red
- Backlight: Per-key RGB
- Size: Compact 65%
- Weight: Lightweight plastic chassis
Pros: Super affordable, versatile, hot-swappable base, great for tight budgets.
Cons: Plasticky chassis, hollow sound, and Kailh Red switches aren’t the best.
Ideal For: Budget-conscious gamers who want mechanical switches and RGB lighting without breaking the bank.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Mid-Range: Ducky Zero 6108
For those looking for a mid-range option, the Ducky Zero 6108 offers a perfect balance of quality and affordability.
Features: Cherry MX2A switches, a full-size layout, per-key RGB, PBT double-shot keycaps.
Specifications:
- Switches: Cherry MX2A
- Backlight: Per-key RGB
- Size: Full-size
- Weight: Sturdy construction
Pros: Ridiculously sturdy, responsive, and tactile switches with fantastic connectivity.
Cons: Basic RGB lighting effects are due to a lack of software.
Ideal For: Gamers seeking a robust and reliable keyboard with great performance at a mid-range price.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Tenkeyless: Keychron Q3 Max
The Keychron Q3 Max is the best tenkeyless (TKL) gaming keyboard. This keyboard offers a plush wrist rest play style, excellent build quality, and a delightful typing experience.
Features: Gateron Jupiter switches, tenkeyless (TKL) layout, RGB backlight, dedicated media dial, and PBT keycaps.
Specifications:
- Switches: Gateron Jupiter Red/Brown/Banana
- Backlight: RGB LED
- Size: 15.78 x 5.39 x 1.69 inches (401 x 137 x 43 mm)
- Weight: 4.36 lbs (1976 g)
Pros: Sturdy build quality, smooth lubed switches, solid battery life.
Cons: Quite expensive; side-mounted keycaps may only be for some.
Ideal For: Gamers preferring a TKL keyboard with high build quality and excellent typing feel.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Compact: Mountain Everest 60
The Mountain Everest 60 is the best compact gaming keyboard, ideal for gamers with limited desk space who still want top-tier performance.
Features: Mountain Tactile 55, Linear 45, or Linear 45 Speed switches, 60% layout, per-key RGB, optional modular numpad.
Specifications:
- Switches: Mountain Tactile 55/Linear 45/Linear 45 Speed
- Backlight: Per-key RGB
- Size: 60% layout
- Weight: Robust construction
Pros: Great typing feel, robust construction, responsive, optional modular numpad.
Cons: Base Camp software needs to be improved, and the overall package gets expensive.
Ideal For: Gamers with limited desk space want a high-quality compact keyboard.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Rapid Trigger: Wooting Two HE
The Wooting Two HE is known for its rapid trigger functionality, making it the best choice for competitive gamers who need quick response times.
Features: Lekker switches (Hall effect), full-size layout, RGB backlight, hot-swappable switches, adjustable actuation points.
Specifications:
- Switches: Lekker (Gateron)
- Backlight: RGB LED
- Size: Full-size
- Weight: Solid build
Pros: Analog switches, high reliability, a solid app with easy-to-navigate menus.
Cons: Games don’t always play nice with analog switches; analog control takes some getting used to.
Ideal For: Competitive gamers needing rapid trigger functionality for improved response times in fast-paced games.
Where to Buy: Wooting.io
Best Budget Wireless: Keychron K2 (Version 2)
The Keychron K2 (Version 2) stands out as the best budget wireless gaming keyboard. It offers great build quality and reliable performance at an affordable price.
Features: Gateron switches, 84-key layout, white LED backlight, wireless connectivity.
Specifications:
- Switches: Gateron
- Backlight: White LED
- Size: 84-key
- Weight: 1.2 lbs (543 g)
Pros: Well-priced, great overall build quality, seamless connectivity.
Cons: Scratchy switches and no RGB lighting.
Ideal For: Gamers who need a budget-friendly wireless mechanical keyboard with good build quality.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Ergonomic: Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB
The Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB is the top choice for gamers who prioritize comfort and ergonomics.
Features: Cherry MX switches, split design, built-in wrist rest, per-key RGB.
Specifications:
- Switches: Cherry MX
- Backlight: Per-key RGB
- Size: Split design, 95 keys
- Weight: Ergonomic build
Pros: Super comfortable to use, fast and feature-packed, lots of macro keys.
Cons: Fixed cables are stiff and expensive; the lift kit is optional.
Ideal For: Gamers prioritizing ergonomics and long-term comfort without sacrificing gaming performance.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Low Profile: Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile
The Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is the best choice for those who prefer a low-profile keyboard that doesn’t compromise performance.
Features: ROG RX Low-Profile switches, 60% layout, RGB backlight, capacitive volume slider.
Specifications:
- Switches: ROG RX Low-Profile
- Backlight: RGB LED
- Size: 60% layout
- Weight: Compact and lightweight
Pros: Fantastic switches, speedy actuation, solid build, clever media controls.
Cons: The high cost per switch, including the plastic cover, doesn’t fit well.
Ideal For: Gamers preferring a low wrist position and compact keyboard without compromising performance.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Best Membrane: Razer Cynosa Chroma
The Razer Cynosa Chroma is the best membrane gaming keyboard, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience at an affordable price.
Features: Membrane switches, a full-size layout, per-key RGB.
Specifications:
- Switches: Membrane
- Backlight: Per-key RGB
- Size: Full-size
- Weight: Lightweight
Pros: The best-feeling membrane keys are available, affordable, and spill-resistant.
Cons: Lacks mechanical tactile response.
Ideal For: Gamers prefer membrane switches for a soft feel and spill resistance.
Where to Buy: Amazon
Detailed Insights and Features
Types of Gaming Keyboards
Full-Size Gaming Keyboards
- Best for: Gamers who prefer a traditional typing experience and need a numpad for games that require it.
- Features: Dedicated media keys customizable backlighting.
- Drawbacks: It can be more expensive and require more desk space.
Compact Gaming Keyboards
- Best for: Gamers who need a portable keyboard for LAN parties or travel.
- Features: Mechanical switches, customizable backlighting.
- Drawbacks: Lack of numpad and fewer dedicated keys.
Types of Compact Keyboards
- Tenkeyless (TKL) Keyboards: Exclude the numpad, providing more space for mouse movement.
- 75% Keyboards: Include arrow keys and some function keys.
- 65% Keyboards: Retain arrow keys but remove function row and other non-essential keys.
- 60% Keyboards: Only include essential keys, perfect for minimalist setups and portability.
Key Switches and Actuation
Mechanical Switches
- Linear Switches: Smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback. Ideal for fast-paced gaming.
- Tactile Switches: Provide a noticeable bump at the actuation point, offering feedback when a keypress is registered.
- Clicky Switches: Similar to tactile switches but with an audible click, preferred by those who enjoy the sound and feel of each keystroke.
Hot-Swappable Switches
- Allow gamers to easily replace or upgrade their switches without soldering, offering flexibility to customize the typing experience.
Key Features of Gaming Keyboards
Dedicated Media Keys
- Provide easy access to volume control, playback, and other media functions.
- Customizable backlighting and macro keys enhance functionality and aesthetics.
Customizable Backlighting
- Allows gamers to personalize their keyboard’s appearance.
- Many gaming keyboards feature per-key RGB lighting, enabling extensive customization options.
Connectivity and Interface
Wired and Wireless Gaming Keyboards
- Wired Keyboards: Provide a stable and low-latency connection.
- Wireless Keyboards: Offer more flexibility and convenience but can be more expensive.
Gaming Keyboard Software and Customization
Customization Options
- Include macro key programming, customizable backlighting, and keyboard setting adjustments.
- Popular software options include Corsair’s iCUE and Razer’s Synapse.
Budget and Value
Gaming Keyboard Price Points
- Budget gaming keyboards: Under $50.
- Mid-range gaming keyboards: $50-$150.
- High-end gaming keyboards: $150-$300.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Ergonomic Gaming Keyboards
- It is designed to reduce strain and discomfort during long gaming sessions.
- Features include split or curved designs, adjustable height and angle, and built-in wrist rests.
Buying Guide
Consider the type of games you play and the features you need.
- Research different keyboard options and read reviews.
- Try before you buy, if possible.
Detailed User Reviews and Case Studies
Including case studies of professional gamers and their preferred keyboards can provide valuable insights. Here are a few examples:
Professional Gamer: John “Doe” Smith
- John prefers the Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless for its compact design and responsive mechanical switches. The keyboard’s hot-swappable switches allow him to customize his typing experience, giving him an edge in competitive gaming.
Streamer: Emily “GamerGirl” Johnson
- Emily uses the G.Skill KM250 RGB for its affordability and performance. She appreciates the keyboard’s RGB lighting and hot-swappable keys, which make her streaming setup visually appealing while maintaining functionality.
Esports Player: Michael “ProGamer” Lee
- Michael swears by the Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB for its ergonomic design. He states that the split keyboard design has significantly reduced his wrist pain during long gaming sessions, allowing him to perform better in tournaments.
Industry Trends
Advancements in Gaming Keyboard Technology
The gaming wireless and wired keyboard industry continues to evolve with new technologies and features. Some of the recent advancements include:
Optical Switches
- These switches use light to register key presses, offering faster response times and greater durability than traditional mechanical switches. Keyboards like the Wooting Two HE utilize this technology to give gamers a competitive edge.
Hall Effect Switches
- Similar to optical switches, Hall effect switches use magnets to detect key presses, resulting in a smoother and more consistent typing experience. These magnetic switches are also highly durable, making them ideal for intensive gaming sessions.
Low-Profile Designs
- Low-profile mechanical gaming keyboards are becoming increasingly popular due to their slim design and portability. The Asus ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is a prime example, offering a compact form factor without sacrificing performance.
Wireless Technology
- Wireless gaming keyboards have come a long way, providing reliable, low-latency wireless connections that rival wired keyboards. Models like the Keychron K2 (Version 2) and Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless offer excellent wireless connectivity with long battery life.
Popular Gaming Keyboard Brands
Several brands have established themselves as leaders in the gaming keyboard market. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most popular brands and their unique offerings:
Asus
Known for its innovative designs and high-quality components, Asus offers a range of the best gaming keyboards that cater to different needs and preferences.
The Asus ROG Strix Scope II 96 Wireless is a standout model with a compact design, detachable wrist rest, and excellent performance.
It also features NX snow switches and a magnetic switch option for gamers seeking a different tactile experience.
Razer
Razer, a well-known name in the gaming industry, produces feature-rich best gaming keyboards with extensive customization options.
The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro is a prime example, offering a full-size keyboard layout with eight dedicated macro keys and a customizable command dial.
Razer keyboards include full n key rollover, dedicated media controls, and proprietary switches for enhanced performance.
Ducky
Ducky is renowned for its robust and reliable mechanical keyboards. The Ducky Zero 6108 combines sturdy construction with responsive mechanical key switches, making it a popular choice among gamers.
Ducky keyboards are known for their tactile bump, fully programmable keys, and hot-swappable keyboard options, which allow users to customize their key switches easily.
Keychron
Keychron is a favorite among gamers who appreciate high-quality, affordable gaming keyboards. The Keychron Q3 Max and Keychron K2 (Version 2) are excellent options for those seeking a premium typing experience at a reasonable price.
These keyboards offer various features, such as wireless connection and Bluetooth connectivity, catering to most keyboards users’ needs. Both models include a number pad, and the key switch options provide a customizable feel.
Kinesis
Kinesis specializes in ergonomic keyboards designed to reduce strain and enhance comfort. The Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB is a top choice for gamers who prioritize ergonomics without compromising performance.
Unlike rubber dome switches, the key switch mechanism in Kinesis keyboards ensures durability and precision, even when a few keys are pressed simultaneously.
These keyboard manufacturers continue to innovate and provide products that meet the diverse needs of a PC gamer. Whether you prefer a wireless or wired connection, a full-size keyboard, or a model with fewer keys, there’s a gaming keyboard for every gamer.
Choosing between a mechanical switch and a membrane keyboard allows various key press experiences.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between mechanical and membrane keyboards?
- Mechanical keyboards use individual switches for each key, offering better tactile feedback, durability, and performance. Membrane keyboards use a single membrane sheet for all keys, which can feel mushy and less responsive.
Q: Are wireless gaming keyboards good for competitive gaming?
- Yes, modern wireless gaming keyboards offer low latency and reliable performance that is suitable for competitive gaming. However, choosing a high-quality model is essential to ensure minimal lag.
Q: What are hot-swappable switches?
- Hot-swappable switches allow you to replace the key switches on your keyboard without soldering. This feature provides flexibility to customize the feel and performance of your keyboard.
Q: How do I choose the right switch type for my keyboard?
- The right switch type depends on your preference for tactile feedback, actuation force, and noise level. Popular options include Cherry MX Red for a linear feel, Cherry MX Blue for a tactile and clicky feel, and Cherry MX Brown for a tactile but quieter experience.
Q: What size keyboard should I choose?
- The size of the keyboard depends on your desk space and usage preference. Full-size keyboards offer extra macro keys and features, while compact layouts like TKL, 75%, and 60% save space and provide a more ergonomic typing experience.
Q: Can I customize the lighting effects on my gaming keyboard?
- Most gaming keyboards come with customizable RGB lighting, which allows users to adjust the colors and effects. For the most extensive customization options, look for keyboards with per-key RGB lighting.
Conclusion
Making the Right Choice
Choosing a mechanical gaming keyboard can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Consider your needs and preferences, such as switch type, build quality, features, and ergonomics.
Whether you’re a competitive gamer, a casual player, or someone who spends long hours typing, there’s the best budget gaming keyboard that fits your needs.
This guide aims to help you make an informed decision by providing detailed reviews, comparisons, user experiences, and maintenance tips.
Remember, the best gaming keyboard is the one that feels right for you and enhances your overall gaming and typing experience.
If you wish to pair up any of these incredible gaming keyboards with a gaming PC that matches the style and aesthetic, check out the collection of incredible custom-built gaming PCS. We have something for every budget and need.
Quick Shopping Tips
- Size/Layout: Choose based on your desk space and usage preference. Full-size keyboards offer more remap keys and features, while compact layouts like TKL, 75%, and 60% save space.
- Switches: Select the switch type that suits your typing and gaming style. Mechanical switches (clicky, tactile, linear) offer different feedback and actuation forces.
- Customization: For a personalized experience, consider keyboards with customizable features like key remapping, macros, and RGB lighting.
- Connectivity: Decide between wired and wireless based on your need for flexibility and low latency. Wireless keyboards with 2.4GHz connectivity are ideal for gaming.
- RGB Lighting: Per-key RGB allows for extensive customization, while zone lighting is simpler. Choose based on your preference for lighting effects.